On behalf of the Baltic States just having received from NATO invitations to accession talks, their Presidents expressed thanks to the USA for their support. According to the Estonian Head of State, the Baltic States had reached an important milestone in their history. "We hope to become members of NATO in 2004, but in order to get there we still have a lot to do," President Rüütel noted.
The Head of State added that Estonia, for years, had been doing its homework to strengthen its defence forces and to develop international cooperation. For the future, in Estonia's President's opinion, it should clearly be defined what are the necessities of an expanded NATO.
In the afternoon, the President will attend a parade of the Lithuanian Defence Forces and the BALTBAT in the Cathedral Square of Vilnius. In the evening, a gala concert will take place at the Opera and Ballet Theatre of Vilnius.
Press Service of the Office of the President
Kadriorg, November 23, 2002
